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Food Service · Missouri

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Missouri

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Missouri earn a median salary of $34,900/year, which is 7% below the national average. Missouri has a state income tax of ~2.5%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $391/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$35K
Median salary in Missouri
-7%
vs. national average
2.5%
State income tax
13,130
Employed in Missouri

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Missouri

Gross annual salary$34,900
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.5% state tax)$2,435/mo
Median 2BR rent (Missouri)-$2,044/mo
Rent as % of take-home83.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$34,900/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$391/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Missouri

1

Meet education requirements

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria positions in Missouri typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Missouri. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many cooks, institution and cafeteria positions in Missouri require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Missouri licensure or certification

Missouri may require specific licensing or professional certification for cooks, institution and cafeterias. Requirements vary by state, contact the Missouri Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Missouri

Missouri employs 13,130 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in St. Louis and Kansas City.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Missouri

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
St. Louis$36K$17.4/hr5,410
Kansas City$36K$17.35/hr4,470
Springfield$34K$16.56/hr940
St. Joseph$34K$16.38/hr210
Columbia$34K$16.3/hr550
Cape Girardeau$34K$16.29/hr200
Jefferson City$32K$15.31/hr340
Joplin$31K$14.94/hr350

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Missouri

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$30K
Median (50th)
$35K
75th percentile
$38K
90th percentile (senior)
$44K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a cooks, institution and cafeteria make in Missouri?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Missouri is $34,900 per year ($16.78/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $37,450. Salaries range from $28,600 to $43,700.

What are the requirements to become a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Missouri?

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria positions in Missouri typically require No formal educational credential. Missouri may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Missouri licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a cooks, institution and cafeteria afford to live in Missouri?

At the median salary of $34,900, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Missouri would take home approximately $2,435/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,044/month, that's 83.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Missouri?

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Missouri are St. Louis ($36,200), Kansas City ($36,080), Springfield ($34,450). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Missouri have state income tax for cooks, institution and cafeterias?

Yes, Missouri has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.5%. On a $34,900 salary, this means roughly $862/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.